Reaction to passing of Sen. Mario Gallegos

State Senator Mario Gallegos

October 16, 2012 5:58:26 PM PDT

HOUSTON --

Below are reactions to the passing of State Senator Mario Gallegos. Houston Mayor Annise Parker "I extend condolences to the family of Texas State Senator Mario Gallegos and offer my support t the residents of his district. Sen. Gallegos had a long and dedicated record of service to the people of Houston, both as a firefighter and long-time member of the Texas legislature."

RW Bray (Gallegos' challenger in upcoming general election) "My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of Texas Senator Mario Gallegos. Today is a tragic day as we have lost a true pioneer and visionary in Texas politics. For the last 17 years Senator Gallegos has served the citizens of District 6 with great heart and compassion; the spirit of the Senator's commitment toward bringing positive change to the District will live on. I was truly honored to be in a campaign with the first Hispanic Senator elected to represent Harris County and was looking forward to many nights and days of open discussion and dialogue with the Senator. I am deeply saddened that those days and nights will never come, but even more grieved that his family will no longer get to see their loved one improve lives of others as he did for them. I will continue to keep the Gallegos family in my prayers as I send out my heartfelt condolences. I am convinced Senator Mario Gallegos will forever smile down not only on Texas, but also his district where he poured out his heart and soul. Rest In Peace Senator...you will be missed."

Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia "The call to public service reached Mario Gallegos early in his life. His first response was to become a first responder ? with the Houston Fire Department. He left us as a longtime state senator, a position he used in his gritty, impassioned way to help his fellow residents of Harris County. And he left us too early, creating a void in public advocacy for all of the public, especially those in underserved communities. I join the chorus of condolences to his loving family as we mourn a brother, a servant, a leader and a fighter."

Texas Governor Rick Perry "Whether serving as a firefighter, championing his beloved University of Houston or representing the interests of his constituents in the Texas Legislature, Sen. Gallegos led a life of serving the public. Anita and I send our condolences and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time."